Dave’s approach makes sense:Equity-focused deals can grow your net worth faster through value-add, appreciation, and leverage.

Most people focus on the lease and be strict with the lease, etc.

.- I’m building Kanzai.AI, focused on AI-powered real estate operations and valuations in Tokyo.- I also cohost and manage properties in Tokyo for other owners.Along the way, I was fortunate enough to get a brief feature on the BiggerPockets Rookie Podcast with Ashley and Tony - which honestly inspired me to push further and keep building.I’d love to connect with others here who:- Have explored investing internationally,- Are working with tiny homes or alternative lodging, or- Are experimenting with tech/AI in real estate.And of course, if anyone’s ever in Tokyo, let’s connect on the ground.

Chicago deals move fast, and the properties often come with quirks—tenant issues, mixed-use layouts, outdated systems, appraisal challenges, etc.An investor-focused broker helps you:• Close faster• Structure offers more competitively• Access multiple lenders and programs• Navigate Chicago-specific property challenges• Avoid deal-killing underwriting issues• Scale your portfolio with the right financing strategyWhen it comes to competitive neighborhoods, your financing can be the difference between winning a deal or losing it.

I would focus on increasing that and getting rid of consumer debt before looking or thinking of real estate.

When I first started in real estate, I thought the key to success was finding that one perfect property.
But looking back, the thing that made the biggest difference wasn’t the deal — it was the foundation behind it....

Montero, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Summit Legacy Holdings, a California-based holding company focused on building long-term wealth through BRRRR real estate investing, land acquisition, and sustainable development.I started my credit and financial journey with very limited resources, using small tools like the Self App, disciplined credit building, and consistent vendor accounts to position myself for real estate investing.

@Ben CaponeHey Ben, since you’re already experienced in rentals, the Midwest can be a great place to buy undervalued properties with solid cash flow and upside, you can focus on B and C grade neighborhoods that often offer strong returns, plus there are off-market deals you won’t see online, the key is building a local team and contractor network to make managing and rehabbing much easier, it’s a lower-cost market with opportunity to flip or hold for steady long-term growth

Also, because of disclosures, there are some downsides to becoming one.A focus on saving commission fees could actually cost you a lot more in the long run. 

Or maybe even just focus on properties with a very light rehab?